Jose Riveiro tips Patrick Maswanganyi for Footballer of the Season

The attacker has been producing top performances in all competitions, winning seven man of the match awards – the most of any player in the DStv Premiership player.

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Riverio believes South Africans understand football and says Masangwanyi is widely loved for the type of football he dishes out.

"I think people are in love with him. Who am I to say who the people should love or identify as the player of the season? I think South African football fans have a good taste in football, they know the football they want to see, and let's see [who wins]," said Riveiro.

"In the end, it's important that the team is getting good results, good performances and within that the individuals can shine, and [Maswanganyi] is a clear candidate, but let's see."

Meanwhile, midfielder Thalente Mbatha has also fitted like a hand to a glove in the Bucs setup, and the Spanish tactician has applauded the 24-year-old for growing and adapting quickly within the group.

"He's growing within the group and the team, and he's a player with some interesting capacities – a pass to play forward, moving quickly in the progression phase, so I'd love to see him growing as an individual," he added.

"But I'm reminding you [media] also that he's surrounded by excellent players as well, which is helping him to play with the confidence that he is showing."